An interesting match here, with Sri Lanka and New Zealand keen to stamp their authority, as both teams head into the third ODI between these two teams. The Pallekele International Cricket Stadium has seen some tough pitches against the batsmen, but especially when it’s a matter of batting for setting or chasing some high totals. On average, this venue averages at 246 runs in the first innings, and because it is likely to assist pace bowlers during the early stages of the game, teams might choose to bowl first if they win the toss. The surface tends to slow down as the game wears off, making spinners play a bigger role.
Sri Lanka, who have demonstrated a lot of resilience in the series, would then look to repeat the performance with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis doing the trick for them once again from the top order. They face stiff competition from the New Zealandis, whose players such as Glenn Phillips and Mitchell Santner have the possible traits to flip the game on its head. A dry spell will be wished for when both teams face the wet weather conditions that are an inherent threat to be sabotaged.
The two playing XIs will probably be comprised of Sri Lanka’s mix of elderly people and young blood. Charith Asalanka and Kamindu Mendis are a few of the bigger names which were expected to chime in in batting as well as bowling. New Zealand will look to bounce back with a resounding victory, hoping that Will Young and Michael Bracewell will help create a much-needed stability in their team. They also need to make the best use of their pace attack- Lockie Ferguson being one of the impressive bowlers for the team.
Team Prediction;
Wicketkeeper: Kusal Mendis
Batters: Glenn Phillips, Charith Asalanka, Pathum Nissanka
All-rounders: Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner, Dunith Wellalage
Bowlers: Ish Sodhi, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando, Maheesh Theekshana
Overall, with the home advantage and a healthy squad, it is Sri Lanka that will walk out on the field. The New Zealand depth in batting and bowling suggests that this third ODI could be a closely contested affair and the weather unpredictability is turning the match into a series decider for both teams.